bsewall

A few years ago I got a letter from Audi saying my '97 A4 had a factory recal on the igntion/key system b/c of a bad spring that could make the car stay in "start" and burn out the starter.

I took my car to the dealer, but I don't think anything was replaced b/c they found nothing wrong.

This morning I get in my car, turn to start the engine and feel like something in the key mechanism either lets go or breaks.

Now when the car is not started, it is VERY difficult to pull the key out of the ignition AND the car thinks the keys are still in the ignition, so the radio is on, alarm won't turn on, etc.

Shouldn't this be covered by the dealer under the recall? (I haven't called the dealer yet, just wanted to do my homework first) BTW - car has 126k miles on it now.

RKA

This recall was a safety issue. Regardless of mileage or age, the original ignition switch is covered under the recall, if your car is part of the recalled group of cars. Just bring it in and mention the recall to the service advisor, in case they have forgotten.

bsewall

Cool, thanks. That's what I was hoping.

John Pal...

Funny, I just had mine go a couple of days ago, but my ignition switch has already been replaced as part of the recall! Yup, the B rev broke too. Audi refused to replace it under warranty since I had the recall done back in 2001.

bsewall

I guess the only way to find out is to take it to the dealer and have them check the records.

RKA

And call AoA to complain about the replacement part failing as well.

John Pal...

When I spoke with AOA on the phone they said there was nothing they could do about it. I sent a good letter to the AOA headquarters, so we'll see what kind of response I get. If they don't come through, I'll be sending a letter to the NHTSA. Thanks for the idea!

John Pal...

I sent a nicely worded letter to AOA, and they were kind enough to reimburse me for both ignition switches that I installed. I guess they realized that it's smarter to keep an Audi fan than **** him off! :-)